Marvel is making digital comics history once more, and proudly announcing that Avenging Spider-Man #1, from the superstar creative team of Zeb Wells and Joe Madureira, will be polybagged with a code for a FREE digital copy of this issue on the Marvel Comics app. That’s right: for no additional charge to the retailers or consumers, Marvel is making sure that everyone who purchases the print version of Avenging Spider-Man #1 (any cover, including all variants) at their local comic shop can get a free digital copy of the issue on the Marvel Comics app .This is the first time that any major comic publisher has offered a free digital copy of a comic with the purchase of the physical copy without any additional cost. This digital copy of Avenging Spider-Man #1 will be accessible via both the Marvel Comics app and the Marvel Chrome store.

“We’ve included our retail partners in crafting this program, and worked with ComicsPRO in determining what would make this program the most beneficial to consumers and retailers and I think we’ve come up with something that is not only unique and exciting, but a program that addresses most of the concerns retailers have had with previous digital programs. With the earliest initial orders already over 100,000 units, Avenging Spider-Man #1 is set to be one of the biggest new releases of the fall and demand can only increase with these free digital codes,” said David Gabriel, Marvel SVP of Sales. “Our goal here is to give consumers the extra added value that they have come to expect for their entertainment dollar as well as the very best in comics entertainment that they have come to expect from Marvel! And that’s not all, for the first time, customers will be able to qualify their retailers for rewards by redeeming the digital codes! We’re also developing a program designed to drive digital customers into brick and mortar comic shops to help increase their business. Bringing the worlds of print and digital together in this way gives the customer a great value and one we’re sure will result in even greater sales for retailers.”

Marvel has worked with some of the top retailers in the nation to ensure this historic new initiative benefits your local shops in major ways, including:

The largest digital revenue share with retailers from any major comic company

Ads in each digital issue of Avenging Spider-Man #1 directing fans to check out subsequent issues at their local comic shop

Driving digital comics customers to their local comic store through targeted communications based on customers’ state & retailer name

Development of a system to reward retailers for future digital purchases made by their customers

Providing retailers with information about customers who sign up for redemption and the rate of redemption

This November, no fan can miss the release of Avenging Spider-Man #1, available in stores with free digital copy and on the Marvel Comics app.

Retailers: Check The Diamond Retailer site for a detailed FAQ addressing any questions you might have about this new initiative and the Marvel Mailer for more information.